Best Laptop Backpack (2020): Reviews and Comparison

April 23, 2020

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By
Keith Terrell

Being able to travel safely and comfortably with a laptop in your backpack is crucial for securing your most valuable possessions. Laptop backpacks are a useful accessory for enabling us to go from place to place while keeping our hands free and ensuring our gadgets are kept properly. With the increasing use of laptops over desktop computers these days, there are more choices than ever when it comes to laptop backpacks, but choosing the right one that’s worth your investment can be challenging.

If you’re in the market for a laptop backpack, or you’re in need of an upgrade, we’ve done the hard work of sorting through the reviews. We’ve created this comprehensive laptop backpack guide to save you time and money, while presenting you with the best options in the market today – as well as some useful information on laptop backpacks that will come in handy.

We’ve searched the laptop backpack market high and low to find one that will suit your needs. These backpacks were chosen for their ability to safely protect your computer, which is for many people, one of the biggest investments they make.

Other major factors that we’ve taken into consideration include comfort, durability, and price. Last but not least, style; because having a functional laptop backpack does not mean that you have to sacrifice looking professional.

We understand that you take your laptop backpacks to meetings too, so we’ve got you covered.

Our Picks For The Best Laptop Backpack

Your laptop is important, but even more important is the bag that protects and cares for it as you go about your daily life. This is why it’s necessary to invest in a bag that won’t cut corners when it comes to quality. No one knows their bags better than the customer, so in order to come up with the best in the market, we’ve read the reviews so that you don’t have to.

Best Overall: Incase Icon Pack

The Incase Icon backpack is designed like a traditional book bag. The backpack is made of durable nylon and it has a strong framed design that does not lose form or sag, even when the bag is packed fully. The Incase Icon backpack has padding, which makes it comfortable to carry for long periods of time. The backpack has pouches for all your devices and fits well on every body type. The Incase Icon backpack is one of the most comfortable backpacks around.

Source: incase.com

Features

3 large compartments

Internal laptop compartment can store up to a 15” laptop

Padded laptop compartment with faux-fur lining

Compression-molded back panel with airflow channels

Adjustable padded shoulder straps

Integrated sternum strap

Made of 840D ballistic nylon

Power pocket on the side with integrated cable port

Benefits

Made of 100% heavy-duty ballistic nylon that can withstand wear and tear, the Incase Icon Pack features three large compartments to store your 15-inch laptop, tablet and smartphone. It has pockets that allow you to organize all your accessories and other essential items. The backpack has padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap which helps you to carry the backpack comfortably, even when it is completely weighed down.

The laptop compartment is lined with faux-fur, which helps to protect your device. The Incase Icon Pack has a firm frame that remains steady irrespective of the amount of stuff you are carrying and does not collapse. The backpack has a dedicated side pocket for your phone and the power pocket on the hip-side has an integrated cable port that provides access to portable audio or power.

Cons

The backpack is quite pricey.

The faux-fur lining gets grimy and is difficult to clean.

The firm shape makes the bag difficult to store.

Does not have a water bottle pocket.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a laptop backpack that is versatile and offers excellent organizational capacity, then the Incase Icon Pack is an excellent choice. The backpack has designated compartments that allow you to store your 15-inch MacBook, iPad and smartphone. The backpack offers space for you to store all your electronics, you can also store flat items and folders in the main compartment. The backpack has many pockets to store and organize all your accessories.

All the features of the Incase Icon make it a top-runner in most online surveys. Overall, the Incase Icon backpack is durable and stands out for its excellent storage.

Runnerup: Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack

The Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack is a medium-sized backpack, excellent for both students, as well as office goers. Made of high-quality nylon, the backpack provides space for your laptop and tablet and all the accessories.

The Backpack’s “Swing Around” access allows you to access your stuff easily without having to take off your backpack and the inbuilt compartment protects your laptop. The backpack is quite spacious and allows you to store a lot of items. The ventilated back panel and the comfortable straps of the Timbuk2 Q allow you to carry the backpack for a long time without feeling tired.

Source: timbuk2.com

Features

Made with nylon

External elasticized side pocket for water bottle

Padded laptop compartment with quilted tricot fabric lining

Ventilated back panel

Fits up to a 17-inch laptop

Comes with Timbuk2’s lifetime warranty

Benefits

The cleverly designed Q laptop backpack from Timbuk2 is made from high-quality nylon. The backpack has a padded laptop compartment that has a quilted tricot fabric lining, which keeps your laptop very safe and protected. The backpack’s front panel unzips fully and offers sufficient space to store all your cords, pens, keys and cards. The backpack features an external elasticized side pocket to keep your water bottle and it also has an on-strap bottle opener, which can be quite useful.

The backpack has a bottom pocket that is zippered and is a perfect place for your headphones, charger or even a pair of shoes. The strap design of the backpack is very comfortable and the air mesh back panel offers breathing room. The Timbuk2 Q is quite lightweight and the size is just right for you to carry the backpack around comfortably. The backpack comes with a lifetime warranty which gives you peace of mind about the quality of the pack.

Pros

High-quality, lightweight construction.

Ample storage for accessories.

Large lined laptop compartment.

Side pocket for a water bottle.

Cons

The lower accessory pocket is quite awkward.

Does not have a sternum strap.

Verdict

The Timbuk2 Q backpack is convenient and cool. The backpack looks like it does not have plenty of storage capacity. Nevertheless, it can accommodate your 17” laptop, iPad and your accessories comfortably. Also, the medium size and the lightweight of the backpack makes it ideal for carrying around at conferences, for long commutes, etc.

Overall, the backpack is durable, rugged and comfortable. With a price point than $100 and plenty of features, the Timbuk2 Q backpack is a great buy.

Best Budget: Mancro

If you’re on the lookout for a stylish backpack to carry your electronic devices and also charge them on the go, then this anti-theft laptop backpack from Mancro may be perfect for you. The backpack does a great job of holding all your things and is suitable for daily use. Made from 900D water-resistant material, the backpack has a 40L capacity.

The backpack boasts several anti-theft features such as tough nylon exterior, combination lock and metal zippers. If you want a laptop backpack that offers a blend of functionality and form, then the Mancro laptop backpack is just right for you. With plenty of pockets and sleeves to store your smaller items, an in-built external charging port to charge your devices, this is a very well-designed backpack.

Source: mancrotech.com

Features

Dimensions: 20” x 12.2” x 5.7”

Made from durable, eco-friendly 900D nylon fabric

S-shaped padded shoulder straps

Can hold a 14” to 15.6” laptop or MacBook

Main pockets, inside pockets, front slanted pocket and two side pockets

USB port design

Safety combination lock

Durable metal zippers

Waterproof

Benefits

Made of water-resistant, eco-friendly 900D nylon material, the stylish Mancro laptop backpack provides the perfect size to hold a laptop or MacBook up to 15.6 inches. The backpack offers several convenient pockets to keep all your things well-organized — main pockets for your iPad, books, clothes, charger, binder, etc., inside pockets for your phone, wallet, etc., a front pocket for all your accessories such as keys, ID, etc. and two side pockets for your umbrella and water bottle.

The backpack features an in-built charging cable inside and a USB charger outside that allows you to plug a power hub and charge your electronic devices on the go. The anti-theft backpack has a safety combination lock that helps you keep your laptop, tablet, files, etc. safe and secure. The backpack has metal zippers that are durable and open/close smoothly ensuring long lasting daily use.

The Mancro laptop backpack has padded ‘S’ shaped shoulder straps that help to relieve stress on the shoulder and the simple, yet comfortable and lightweight design of the backpack offers excellent back support making it easy for you to carry it all through the day. The compact dimensions of the backpack make it ideal to store under your airplane seat while traveling.

Pros

Durable backpack.

Very spacious and lots of storage pockets and sleeves.

Padded laptop compartment.

Comes in a choice of 5 stylish colors.

In-built USB charger port.

Cons

Poor zipper quality.

Does not have back padding.

No chest strap to lighten the load.

Verdict

This anti-theft laptop backpack from Mancro is one of the top-rated bags on Amazon with an overall 4.5 rating. The backpack is water resistant and fits laptops up to 15.6 inches. The external USB port allows you to conveniently charge your devices anytime and anywhere, which is a big plus. The backpack provides many pockets and ample storage space. The anti-theft features are excellent for travelers, office goers and students wanting to keep their things safe and secure.

Overall, the Mancro laptop backpack is a multi-purpose pack offering an excellent combination of storage, safety, utility and durability. And, the reasonable price makes this backpack the top choice for professionals, as well as students looking for a reliable laptop backpack that does not cost the earth.

Best for Mini Laptops: Samsonite Modern Utility Mini Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a laptop backpack to fit your casual lifestyle, then the Samsonite Modern Utility laptop backpack is an excellent buy. The backpack offers excellent organizational space for all your electronic devices and is a great business accessory. The backpack is constructed with extra-strength material and the fabric lining is durable and long lasting. However, the small size of the backpack makes it ideal for school children or for people who do not have a lot of stuff to carry to work.

Source: shop.samsonite.com

Features

Dimensions: 15.5” x 10.75” x 6.0”

Weight: 1.5 lb

Material: Synthetic

Made from 2-tone RipStop polyester

RipStop extra strength fibers

Water-resistant bottom

Smart sleeve

Air mesh padding on the shoulder straps and back

Padded laptop compartment

Tablet storage compartment with tricot lining

Multi-zippered pockets

Benefits

The Samsonite Modern Utility laptop backpack is made by Samsonite, the leader in luggage manufacturing. Samsonite is a pioneer in luggage equipment and has perfected luggage, travel accessories, casual bags, backpacks, laptop bags and electronic carriers. With a history of 100 years, Samsonite is synonymous with innovation, functionality, reliability, durability and style and all products from Samsonite are iconic, making Samsonite the No. 1 global leading brand in the world.

Constructed with 2-tone Ripstop polyester fabric, the Samsonite Modern Utility laptop backpack is very durable. The RipStop extra strength fibers and woven into the lightweight fabric of the backpack, which offers exceptional strength to the material and prevents it from tearing. The backpack has a water-resistant bottom. The Samsonite backpack features a smart sleeve that lets the case slide over the upright handle allowing you to transport the backpack very easily and also prevents it from falling when placed on the ground.

The backpack has an air mesh padding on the back which allows for ventilation and on the shoulder straps to facilitate comfortable carrying. The Samsonite backpack has an in-built padded compartment that fits your laptop up to 13.3 inches and protects it when you are traveling. The backpack also features a tablet pocket that is lined with tricot fabric and is designed to store your tablet device. The backpack also has several zippered pockets that offer plenty of storage for all your small items and accessories and also offers quick access when you need them.

Pros

The backpack has a sleeve to store your laptop and a compartment for your tablet.

The bottom of the backpack is water resistant.

Padded compartments keep your laptop and electronic devices safe.

Cons

Can only accommodate a 13.3-inch laptop.

Small size, ideal for school kids and teens.

Verdict

Overall, the Modern Utility laptop backpack from Samsonite is a stylish and convenient backpack for your small-sized laptop of 13 inches or less, your tablet and other accessories. The backpack is lightweight, yet sturdy. The biggest plus of the backpack is that it is very strong and durable, thanks to the RipStop fibers that offer extra strength to the backpack and prevents it from tearing.

The only limitation of the backpack is its size, which limits the number of things you can carry. Nevertheless, the backpack from Samsonite has a bright and stylish design and comes in 4 eye-catching, attractive colors that are sure to keep you in trend.

Best for College Students: High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack

The High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack has all the features that you would look for as a high school or college student. And, what’s more? The backpack is attractive and stylish too. The backpack’s main compartment is very spacious and allows you to organize your books, notebooks and binders very neatly. And, the bag also has several other compartments that can help you stay organized so that you don’t spend all your time at school hunting for your stuff.

The High Sierra Swerve backpack also has a lidded media pocket, a zippered mesh pocket, hook for your key fob and pen pockets. The multi-compartment design of the backpack allows you to pack all your things, small or big so that you can save a lot of time.

Source: shop.highsierra.com

Features

Dimensions: 19” x 13” x 7.8”

Weight: 2.5 lb

CushionZone laptop compartment fits up to a 17-inch laptop

TechSpot sleeve fits your tablet

Vapel mesh moisture-wicking material

Air channels for maximum airflow

Zippered media pocket with USB/ headphone port

Beverage pocket

Side compression straps (adjustable)

Padded bottom panel

Reflective accents

Benefits

The High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack has a very sleek build and a stylish design. The backpack has a main compartment that can accommodate your 17-inch laptop and several pockets to store all your gear. The laptop backpack is ideal for students because not only does it have a sleeve dedicated to a laptop but also a TechSpot sleeve for your tablet with a two-way entry so that you can access your digital gear without disturbing all the other things.

The Swerve laptop backpack features a zippered accessory pocket that has a USB port which lets you access your media devices easily and you can listen to your favorite music wherever you go. The backpack has a beverage pocket for your water bottle.

Apart from all the great organization and storage features offered by the backpack, students are sure to love the suspension system of the backpack that distributes the weight of the bag efficiently when you’re carrying heavy loads and offers relief. The strap has non-slip shoulder pads which help to distribute the weight evenly on your shoulders and the swivel clip prevents the strap from twisting.

The backpack’s handle lets you carry it in 2 different ways and the backpack has a padded bottom panel, which is very convenient and ensures that your back remains upright even when the bag is empty. The back panel is made of Vapel mesh material that has moisture-wicking properties and the air channels create maximum airflow between the backpack and your back to keep your back dry.

Pros

Offers maximum comfort at all times, even when you’re carrying heavy loads.

Protects your electronic devices from getting damaged.

The waterproof bag keeps all your contents dry and safe.

Cons

Requires a lot of effort to clean.

The bag is quite bulky to handle easily.

Verdict

If storage and durability are your main priorities, then you cannot go wrong with the High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack. The backpack is loaded with features and it looks extremely stylish too. And, you get all this at a very affordable price too.

A combination of fine craftsmanship, aesthetics and quality, the Swerve Laptop Backpack’s superior features are sure to make you look and feel snazzy.

Why You Should Invest In A Laptop Backpack

More people these days are giving up the office job that ties them to the desk. The gig economy is expanding quicker than ever, and more people are working remotely or off their laptops in places other than the office. But whether you work in the office or not, laptops are by no means cheap and this is why it’s crucial to take good care of your investment and the data that it contains. This is especially important if you’re a professional on the go.

Sure, a regular backpack can store your laptop. But that doesn’t mean that it will protect your laptop in a way that a dedicated laptop backpack will. Laptop backpacks are designed with padding, which average backpacks don’t have. This padding is critical to protecting your computer from physical damage which will cost you money to repair, if it can even be repaired. The point is, you wouldn’t want to take the risk of damaging your laptop because it wasn’t given the protection it needs.

Additionally, standard backpacks don’t have the same kind of compartments and organizational features that a laptop bag has. Individuals who need a laptop backpack don’t only need it for that purpose: they also need space for things such as other gadgets. Perhaps a busy salesman needs a tablet plus a slot for other documents and notebooks, which your standard backpack doesn’t have. On the other hand, laptop backpacks have these thoughtful features, because they are constructed with busy people in mind who value staying organized.

Another primary reason why people should invest in laptop backpacks is for comfort and health. You probably don’t realize it, but your shoulders and back take a serious beating every time you use a heavy backpack with flimsy, uncomfortable shoulder straps; not to mention the extra weight added by your laptop content. In fact, using the inappropriate backpack for heavy things such as your laptop for a very long time can cause serious injuries in the future. This is one major health hazard that you can prevent by investing in the right laptop backpack.

But it doesn’t always have to be a major investment. There is a misconception that laptop backpacks are always expensive because of all the added features. The truth is that there are so many choices in the market that are so affordable, you won’t even have to think too hard about making that purchase. There are so many terrific brands out there that create world-class laptop backpacks, which will last you for years to come as long as you take good care of them. So even if you’re on a budget, finding the right style is easy.

The Features To Look For In Laptop Backpacks

Not all laptop backpacks are made equally. They come with a great array of features, each designed for different lifestyles and needs in mind. As you shop for your next accessory, here are some features to keep in mind before making a purchase:

Durability - Laptops are expensive electronic devices, and taking them to and from places has become a necessity. If you own a laptop, you might as well invest in a bag that is made to take care as you travel or commute. Durability in build and construction is critical in preventing your laptop from getting jostled around, especially if you’re on the go a lot. Look for padded sleeves, cushioned chambers, and well-sealed seams. Water-resistant fabric, or at least a rain cover, would also give you an added line of defense against the elements especially if you’ll be using it in the outdoors often, or if you’re a business traveler.

Security - Considering how expensive your laptop is, not to mention all the confidential data it stores, it’s important to choose a laptop backpack that has security features. When you’re tired from traveling, the last thing you need to worry about is a pick-pocket. And these days, thieves are getting smarter by the minute. Anti-theft features such as lockable zippers, cut-proof material, RFID technology will go a long way in protecting your sensitive and valuable items, giving you the most important benefit of all: peace of mind.

Thoughtful compartments - Not all laptop backpack users may find this necessary, but for many, having a good number of thoughtful compartments helps with organization. This feature is especially important for individuals who carry a lot of small pieces of equipment or things with them in their laptop backpack, such as cables, headphones, calculators, tablets, mobile phones, keys, passports, and more. On the other hand, there are also some individuals who prefer minimalist travel backpacks that have less compartments. Choosing a style with the right number and kind of compartments that you need helps you stay organized in exactly the way that you want.

Size - The most common laptop has a 15-inch screen display. But with new technology coming out faster than you can say computer, we’re now seeing laptops that cater to more specific needs. This is why there are smaller notebooks, as well as laptops with massive 17-inch screens. It’s important to take into consideration the size of your laptop, as well as the other things you’d like to keep in it, when choosing the size of your laptop backpack. If the laptop sleeve is too large, your computer will end up moving around the bag during travel, and the impact from this can lead to permanent damage.

Ergonomics - When you’re on the go a lot, you’ll need a laptop backpack that doesn’t weigh you down and cause burden to your shoulders. A model with ergonomic features such as fully-padded straps and weighted construction adds to the comfort, especially if you’re carrying a heavy load. Other features you may want to look out for include load-lifting straps, a contoured shape, or a stabilizer.

Style - Laptop backpacks come in an extensive range of styles to suit different needs. There are casual bags for students, as well as more elegant styles for professionals. Before you settle on a design, consider if its style reflects your personal style, which doesn’t have to be sacrificed for function. Many laptop backpacks these days are actually designed to be fashionable, because no one wants to purchase a useful bag which lacks greatly in aesthetics.

Extra features - While laptop bags are primarily designed to store your laptops, many styles on the market come with extra features that do come in handy. These include exterior mesh pockets for water bottles, USB chargers, or reflective straps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best laptop backpack?

The best backpack for laptops should offer enough space to properly stow the laptop inside. It should contain straps to secure the laptop in place to prevent it from shifting during movement. It should offer easy accessibility, yet a secure closure; zippers are ideal.

The straps should be padded and adjustable. It should also feature a carrying handle along the top. Pockets that can be used to store accessories and other essentials are also recommended. The best backpack for laptops should also feature a protective, shock-proof material to prevent the laptop from becoming damaged if the backpack is dropped or handled roughly.

How are laptop bags measured?

To ensure a laptop will properly fit inside a laptop bag, it’s important to measure the laptop itself. Measure the screen, from the bottom right corner to the upper left corner. Measure the height of the laptop; while the laptop is closed, measure along its side, from the left or right bottom corner to the left or right top corner.

To measure the depth, close the laptop and measure from one edge to the other. Measure the width by placing a tape measure on the bottom right corner and positioning it to the bottom left corner.

The dimensions taken while measuring your laptop should be used to find a bag that will properly accommodate the device.

What is a TSA-approved laptop bag?

A TSA-approved laptop bag is one that meets regulations that have been established by the Transportation Security Administration.

Ideally, these bags should contain a compartment that provides access to a clear, unobstructed X-ray image of a laptop; a section that is specifically designated for a laptop and that can be laid flat on the belt of an X-ray machine. Additionally, the bag should not contain any zippers, buckles, or snaps that are made of metal, either underneath or on top of the section that is designated for the machine.

The laptop-only section should also be free of pockets, both on the inside and on the outside. While these qualities will make a laptop bag TSA-compliant, it is important to note that it does not mean that the laptop will not need to be removed from the bag while it is being X-rayed; if a clear X-ray image cannot be taken, you may be asked to remove the laptop.

What is the best laptop case for a Macbook Pro?

The best laptop case for a MacBook Pro is one that properly fits over the exterior of the machine. It should be lightweight and thin, yet made of a highly durable material. Ideally, the material should be shock-resistant and scratch-proof, yet breathable.

Some high-quality cases for MacBook Pros also come with matching keyboard covers that protect the keyboard of the machine, as well.

What is the best laptop backpack for a college student?

The best laptop backpack for a college student depends on the specific needs of the individual. It should the appropriate size to properly accommodate the laptop and feature a compartment that is designated specifically for the laptop. It should also contain straps that can secure the laptop in place to prevent it from moving around.

There should be a supportive material that provides cushioning and offers shock absorbency around the laptop. The backpack should contain padded, adjustable straps, as well as a carrying handle. Easy, yet durable, accessibility is key; zippers are ideal. Pockets that can be used to store other necessities are also ideal.

The Best Way To Keep Your Laptop Safe

No matter what you use your laptop for, investing in one means that you have to commit to taking care of it too. Even if you handle your laptop gently, the inappropriate laptop bag can result to damage all too quickly.

Selecting the right laptop backpack involves a lot of time and consideration, because there are a lot of things you should think about. Where do you plan to take your laptop? How far is the distance you have to commute on a daily basis? What else do you intend to carry in your bag? Once you’ve decided, you then have to factor in the comfort and security aspects of the bag. These preferences are all very personal, yet far too many people place little importance in these things. You don’t want to have to wait until you accidentally break your laptop because you used a laptop without sufficient padding, or until you’ve lost your belongings because a thief outsmarted you.

Laptop backpacks are the next most important investment you can make after buying a laptop. When you have one that meets all your needs, there’s no need to worry about mishaps or losing your belongings. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until the last minute. Remember, your laptop backpack is likely one you will use throughout the week or take in your travels. When you have a laptop backpack that you’re happy with, you have one less thing to worry about and more time to focus on what’s important.